The murder of Mexican journalist Kristian Uriel Zavala in Guanajuato has sent shockwaves through the community and highlighted the ongoing dangers faced by journalists in the country. Zavala, who was also known as a DJ, was killed in the early hours of March 2, 2025, in Silao, Guanajuato. He was returning home from an event when he was attacked.
Zavala was traveling in a vehicle with another man, identified as Axel Yahir, when they were ambushed by gunmen. The attackers opened fire on the vehicle, killing both Zavala and Yahir instantly. The incident occurred near the El Condado de la Pila neighborhood, and the bodies were found inside the bullet-riddled car.
Kristian Uriel Zavala was the director of the news portal “El Silaoense Mx” and had previously worked for the printed media outlet “Reporte Silao”. He was known for covering crime and political issues in the region. Zavala had received threats in the past, which led him to seek protection from the government in 2021. Despite these measures, the threats persisted, and his murder has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the protection protocols for journalists in Mexico.
The State Attorney General’s Office (FGE) of Guanajuato has launched an investigation into the murder and has designated a forensic and operational team to clarify the crime and apprehend the perpetrators. The local government of Silao has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and has pledged to support the investigation.
The murder of Kristian Uriel Zavala is a stark reminder of the risks faced by journalists in Mexico, one of the most dangerous countries in the world for media professionals. The incident has sparked outrage among Zavala’s colleagues and the broader community, who are demanding justice and greater protection for journalists.
Sources: Tribuna de la Bahía / Telediario
